Breakthrough in Scotland’s Aquaculture: Loch Long Salmon Secures Approval for Innovative Fish Farm
The Scottish Government has officially approved groundbreaking proposals from Loch Long Salmon, paving the way for the first semi-closed containment fish farm in Scotland. This investment represents £40 million and aims to strengthen the nation’s aquaculture sector.
A Game-Changer for Aquaculture
Loch Long Salmon has received planning permission to set up a transformative fish farm in Loch Long, Argyll & Bute. The Beinn Reithe application was deemed a project of national significance and was approved by the Scottish Ministers on August 26, 2025. Having secured a permit from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in December 2021, the company is now well-positioned to introduce innovative semi-closed containment technology to Scotland.
Benefits to Environment and Economy
This venture is expected to enhance environmental sustainability and animal welfare standards while simultaneously boosting Scotland’s international competitiveness in the aquaculture sector. Sustainable farmed salmon has emerged as one of Scotland’s vital exports, being recognized as the UK’s top food export in 2023.
Global Best Practices
Semi-closed containment farming is already a well-established practice in countries like Canada, Norway, and the Faroe Islands. This technique significantly enhances salmon welfare while also generating economic benefits and minimizing environmental impact, thereby serving as a model for Scotland’s future in aquaculture.
Community Engagement and Job Creation
Mark Shotter, Project Director at Loch Long Salmon, expressed his enthusiasm: “After years of planning and engagement with communities and stakeholders, we are tremendously pleased to have the backing of the Scottish Government to deliver our first project at Loch Long. Representing £40 million in investment, this initiative promises to create numerous job opportunities and establish dedicated community funds, benefiting both local and national economies.”
Once operational, the project will directly create 12 full-time jobs in the Arrochar area. Additionally, Loch Long Salmon has committed to establishing a dedicated community benefit fund, contributing £100,000 annually for a minimum of 20 years. Community representatives will determine how to allocate these funds to enhance the local area effectively.
Local Community Support
Ronnie Ross, Chair of the Arrochar, Tarbet and Ardlui Community Council, welcomed the project’s approval: “I very much welcome the news that Loch Long Salmon can now progress with the delivery of their innovative project that will inject significant investment into the local community. The dedicated community fund will greatly support local organizations and events, ensuring a positive impact within the region, and the job creation is vital for retaining skilled workers in our rural area.”
The Technology Behind Semi-Closed Containment
Semi-closed containment farming systems resemble traditional pens at the surface. However, they feature an opaque, impermeable outer barrier that protects the fish net below the waterline. The system draws in and circulates water from deeper parts of the loch, which mitigates threats from sea lice and seal attacks, while also enabling waste capture for circular economy applications, such as converting waste to energy.
